This Week in The Can

HerCanberra Team

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During these first weeks of Spring, Canberra is coming alive with an exciting range of things to do and see including Canberra’s best loved flower festival, an action packed circus extravaganza, a fashion workshop by two of Australia’s best known bloggers, the chance to fall in love with Italian cinema, the chance to see into Canberra’s embassies and high commissions, and a swag of markets, theatre productions, music and exhibitions for every taste. Here’s what’s happening this week in The Can!

YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS…

Circus Oz: But Wait There’s More

This is an exuberant live circus performance bursting with energy—a crazy mix of acrobatics, juggling, trapeze work, unicycle and hula showstoppers, and wonderful live and original music. Circus Oz has been delighting audiences for close to 40 years. It has performed in 27 countries, across five continents to more than three million people and represented Australia at scores of international festivals.

Performed within a spectacular large-scale set inspired by an abandoned theatre in tatters, But Wait …There’s More uses circus to satirise the rising tide of information, consumerism and visual pollution that form today’s manic-paced lifestyles. You’ll see an astonishing mix of stunt jumping acrobatics, cutting-edge juggling and much more. All of this is entwined within original music performed by Circus Oz’s live and physically acrobatic band. This selection of breathtaking stunts, irreverent humour and cracking live music is a stunning show for the whole family from one of Australia’s most successful touring troupes.

Tash Sefton and Elle Ferguson fell in love with fashion at a young age. Their passion turned into careers within the fashion industry, before they joined forces to start their internationally famed blog, They All Hate Us, a go-to for stylish quotes, must-have items and aspirations for the fashion-forward.

In this special event at the Canberra Centre, the girls share their top tips for a stylish season ahead, including their need-to-know advice on how to accessorise your summer style both off- and on-duty. Tickets include a complimentary $50 Canberra Centre Gift Card and a style bag to take home.

Bookings essential, visit Customer Service on Level 1 or visit the website for more information.

Canberra Weekly Matinee Magic: In The Mood

Enjoy the immortal music of Glenn Miller, Cole Porter and Duke Ellington in lush symphonic arrangements, as performed by the Canberra Symphony Orchestra, albeit with the biggest saxophone section you’ve ever seen on stage at Llewellyn Hall with the orchestra.Selections include favourites such as Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, On the Sunny Side of the Street, In the Mood, and more.

This will be a performance that evokes the simple pleasures of another era and one that will have you humming irresistible tunes all the way home. The perfect concert for someone seeing the CSO for the first time! Saturday 26 September, Llewellyn Hall at 2pm.

Lavazza Italian Film Festival

Palace Cinemas’ biggest cultural film Festival returns for its 16th season this September with some of the most exciting and beautiful cinema from Italy. Whether it’s Audrey Hepburn tightening her grip on Gregory Peck’s waist as they zoom around on a Vespa in Roman Holiday, Daniel Craig’s James Bond recuperating next to Lake Como in Casino Royale, the iconic image of Anita Ekberg bathing in the Trevi Fountain in La Dolce Vita or (my personal favourite) Lizzie Maguire’s adventures in Rome with an Italian pop star in the eponymous film, Italy never fails to disappoint on camera.

Presented by Palace, the Lavazza Italian Film Festival will open with box-office hit GOD WILLING (SE DIO VUOLE). Director Edoardo Falcone’s laugh out loud comedy starring Alessandro Gassman addresses the vast and varied interaction of atheists and believers with fresh, modern eyes, and celebrates open-mindedness and the courage it takes to change for the better.

Other festival highlights include Venice multi award winning THE DINNER (I NOSTRI RAGAZZI), which shows an intense moral struggle facing two wealthy brothers and their wives in this gripping adaptation on the Dutch best-seller by Herman Koch.

September 22 @ 6:00 pm – October 11 @ 10:00 pm at Palace Cinemas. See the website for ticket details.

Fashion and Fantasy: 21st century fashion dolls

The exhibition Fashion and Fantasy: 21st century fashion dolls has on display over 500 dolls dressed in historical fashion, ethnic clothing and couture, including costumes from film and television series.

See the private collection of Julie Manley, who started collecting fashion dolls in 2000, repaints and customises all her dolls in some way. Many of the outfits have been designed and made by the collector. Starting Saturday 12 September – 22 November. Opening hours: weekdays: 10am – 5pm, weekends: 12 – 5pm. Free Entry at the Canberra Museum and Gallery.

Windows to the World

Tour the world, without the long haul flight! Windows to the World opens the gates to reveal the beautiful landscapes, superb architecture and diverse cultures of Canberra’s embassies and high commissions from 19 September to 11 October.

Take a stroll through Yarralumla, Deakin, Forrest and O’Malley to sample some of the flora, flavours, customs, sounds and culture of Europe, Asia, the Americas and Africa with a range of open days, tours, performances, exhibits and displays.

Canberra’s world-class floral extravaganza, Floriade, returns for its 28th year in September, promising yet another colourful program of events inspired by the 2015 theme, Reflection. Visitors to Australia’s biggest celebration of spring can pick up gardening tips from experts in the field, listen to inspiring musical performances, enjoy culinary demonstrations by world-renowned chefs and keep the kids entertained with an exciting line up of entertainment.

This year’s garden beds serve as floral tributes to the 100th anniversary of the Anzac landings at Gallipoli, representing iconic symbols of war and peace such as the poppy, the Southern Cross, two-up and the famous slouch hat. From 12 September to 11 October, Commonwealth Park, Canberra. Free Entry.

Play Up

Play Uppokes its tongue out at the idea that museums are hands off. Stand up, muck up, dress up, make up, think up and step up in a fabulous space that has turned the traditional idea of what goes on in museums completely on its head.

In Play Up it is visitors to the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House (MOADOPH) who are the curators – the exhibition has been developed with children and celebrates the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Play Up celebrates the important role children have in the cultural life of our communities. Most importantly Play Up is a place for fun. At MOADOPH and open from 9am to 5pm daily.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Tuliptop Gardens Festival

Drive into Spring at the Tuliptop Gardens Festival. Their 10 acre garden of tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers creates a spectacular display. Hundreds of blossom trees provide a magic pathway to the cascading waterfall and watercourse. Classical music wafts through the air in the hidden valley. Walk past the rosemary field to the 70 metre high viewing platform for the perfect photo. Enjoy a picnic and bottle of wine in the grounds.

On until 11 October at The Tuliptop Gardens, Federal Highway, Sutton.

Floriade

Canberra’s world-class floral extravaganza, Floriade, returns for its 28th year in September, promising yet another colourful program of events inspired by the 2015 theme, Reflection. Visitors to Australia’s biggest celebration of spring can pick up gardening tips from experts in the field, listen to inspiring musical performances, enjoy culinary demonstrations by world-renowned chefs and keep the kids entertained with an exciting line up of entertainment.

This year’s garden beds serve as floral tributes to the 100th anniversary of the Anzac landings at Gallipoli, representing iconic symbols of war and peace such as the poppy, the Southern Cross, two-up and the famous slouch hat. On until 11 October in Commonwealth Park, Canberra. Free Entry.

Meet the Gardener Tour

The Parliament House Landscape Services gardeners will lead this very special in-depth tour through the gardens and hidden courtyards of Parliament House. They will show you how they manage the intricate systems and plantings that keep the gardens always looking their best. Here is an opportunity to ask all of those gardening questions and get a few tips from the best. You will finish the tour with tea in the Queen’s Terrace cafe.

Breakfast with the Birds is ideal for bird lovers! Embark on an early morning tour of the Australian National Botanic Gardens and set off on a guided bird watching expedition. Be guided through the many different landscapes of the Gardens and see some of the beautiful birdlife that call the Gardens home.

At the Australian National Botanic Gardens,Clunies Ross Street, Acton from Saturday 19 September to 11 October. Bookings from www.friendsanbg.org.au.

Mt Stromlo Observatory September Public Night

Mount Stromlo Observatory in conjunction with the Canberra Astronomical Society invite you to September’s public observation night. See the rings of Saturn, the craters of the moon and beautiful star clusters and nebulae. On the night, there will be talks by astronomers from Mt. Stromlo Observatory and observations on several telescopes. In the event of cloudy weather, star gazing will be cancelled but the talks will occur regardless of the weather. Check the weather using the Mt. Stromlo all-sky camera on their website. Warm clothing is recommended. Friday 25 September, 7pm – 9pm at Mt. Stromlo Observatory.

Burrimul: Open Gardens Canberra

Visit Burrimul: Open Gardens Canberra. Burrimul’s broad front garden features naturalistic plantings of native plants in a structured setting. See Grevilleas ‘Gold Rush’ and ‘Lady O’ in bloom, among many other species. Inside the torii gate, narrow paths lead through a large native side garden to the back garden, lushly planted with exotic shrubs and on to an enclosed courtyard filled with camellias and azaleas. Burrimul (Emu) and other sculptures lurk around every corner! Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September, Burrimul, 14 Harcourt Street, Weetangera.

Sculpture garden talks at the War Memorial

Join Education staff from the Australian War Memorial as they share stories about some of the outdoor memorials and works of art in the Memorial’s Sculpture Gardens during the Floriade festival period. In the event of inclement weather talks will be conducted in the galleries. War Memorial of Australia, Campbell. Monday 21 September. Tuesdays 22 September, 29 September, 6 October. Thursday 24 September. Free entry.

MARKETS, FESTIVALS & EXPOS

Volunteering EXPO 2015

The Volunteering EXPO is back! Volunteering ACT held its last Volunteering EXPO in 2013 to celebrate Canberra’s Centenary year. The EXPO was a resounding success with 60 exhibitors on show, and over 1000 people coming through the doors over the two days of the EXPO.

The 2015 EXPO is being held on Wednesday 23 September at the Canberra Southern Cross Club, Woden from 12:00pm – 6:30pm. This is a fantastic opportunity for volunteer involving organisations to showcase their volunteering programs to the public. The EXPO provides a targeted recruitment strategy, and also allows volunteer managers and other staff to network with their colleagues in fellow organisations.

Canberra’s award winning Handmade Market brings together talented artists, designers, stylists, craftspeople and gourmets all under one roof. The Handmade Market is held at Exhibition Park in Canberra and will showcase over 220 Australian designer/makers. All indoors over two pavilions including a gourmet food hall.

All products on sale at the Handmade Market are Australian made and designed. Shop at Handmade to support Australian designers and find something unique, well priced and meet the maker. Free entry, Free parking and all undercover. ATMs on site. Exhibition Park, Flemington Rd. Mitchell. Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 10am-4pm.

The Old Bus Depot Markets are easy to access, have ample free parking and a wide range of food stalls to enjoy a multicultural meal, a coffee or a quick bite to eat – while watching talented musicians and taking in the hustle and bustle of the markets. On every Sunday from 10am to 4pm on Wentworth Avenue in Kingston.

The Southside Farmers Market is a village market that provides all the fresh food that you need for your weekly shop. The market has a great range of fresh, seasonal produce from around 60 stallholders each week – including fruit, vegetables, eggs, meat, fish, honey, bread, gourmet treats and much more.

Amongst the wide range of food available, you will find vegetables from Cowra, free range eggs from Tharwa, organic meat from Bombala, organic salad greens from near Hall, vegetables from Marulan, fresh mushrooms and seafood from the south coast, award winning olive oil from near Hall, vegetables from Thirlmere, citrus from Leeton, apples from Batlow Gunning and Pialligo, local breads, cooking sauces and condiments made in Canberra, and award winning organic and fair trade coffees roasted here in Canberra. If you have a sweet tooth try some freshly baked, tarts, macarons or cakes. There is a wide range of certified organic and biodynamic produce available.

After your shopping relax over a cappuccino or a hot chocolate made with real Belgian chocolate, with a crepe, waffle, sausage sandwich or gozleme in the courtyard.

Eat Local Fridays is a brand new farmers’ market to hit Canberra. Held every Friday, buy chemical and GMO-free produce directly from the grower and makers. Special guest Costa Georgiadis, will be there to kick things off. Visit www.eatlocalmovement.org for more information. On from 2.30pm – 7pm this Friday 4 September at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton.

Westside Markets

Whether it’s food, fashion, second-hand or handmade, Canberrans love a good market. The newest addition to the market scene are the Westside Acton Markets which have seen Westside Acton Park transformed into an eclectic outdoor market every Sunday. Each week a mix of handmade, vintage and designer stalls will set up alongside live entertainment and permanent food vendors in the lakeside precinct. On every Sunday from 10am to 4pm at Westside Acton Park, Barrine Drive.

Capital Region Farmers Market

Visit the largest regional markets in the Southern Tablelands — the Capital Region Farmers Market! Be tantalised by fruits, vegetables, plants, flowers, seafood, cakes, condiments, meats, cheeses and more. Fresh produce reflects the exciting seasonal characteristics and diversity of the region providing opportunity for you to learn more about the food you’re eating and the region it comes, and discuss what you’re buying with the growers. On every Saturday from 7.30am to 11.30am at Exhibition Park on Flemington Road.

FOOD & WINE

Botanica

Botanica showcases Bisonhome’s recent ceramic and glass designs amongst a continuously evolving display of flowers and scents. Hear from the local design community each Saturday. Brian Tunks, creative director of bisonhome and former ancient historian, discusses classical pottery methods, his collection’s evolution and some home styling and design tips.

The Royal Thai Embassy is pleased to invite you to the Royal Thai Embassy for the Thai Food & Cultural Festival 2015. There will be Thai food stalls from local restaurants, Thai products and handicrafts, cultural performances, Muay Thai, tourism showcase, a wishing pond as well as fun and games. The festival also includes stalls to raise awareness and funds for charities.

This year’s Festival aims to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the 4 main regions of Thailand through decorations, cultural performances, folk music and activities. The event is also a part of the unique and popular Windows to the World programme in Canberra. Free shuttle bus will be provided by Windows to the World from Civic and Floriade to the Embassy. On Sunday September 27 from 10.30am – 5pm at the Royal Thai Embassy, 111 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla.

Australian Cool Climate Wine Show

Murrumbateman is again hosting this year’s Australian Cool Climate Wine Show from Monday 21 to Saturday 26 September – head along and find out what makes cool climate wines so special! Award winners are announced on Friday evening. Saturday morning the wine show is open to the public to taste this year’s entries.

For the first time, there are two special Masterclass tutored tastings hosted by Sarah Andrew from Selador Wines. The first, ‘From Riesling to Shiraz’ and the second, ‘Wines and Winners from the 2015 Australian Cool Climate Wine Show’.

Bookings are essential and prices vary for the events – check out www.accwineshow.com.au. Held at Murrumbateman Recreation Grounds, 19 East Street,Murrumbateman.

Latin American Flavours Festival

This month, the capital feasts on the wonders of Latin American food with a special line-up of dinners being held at the Hyatt’sPromenade Café, created by Executive Chef Nitin. The chef and his culinary team have spent months researching authentic dishes by 12 countries, from Cuba right through to Mexico. Cuba will celebrate the festival with a rum Mojito tasting and an opportunity to get those hips moving with the lively music of a Cuban band. Peru will dish up humitas (traditional corn cake steamed in corn husk), Columbia a whole roast stuffed pig and Uruguay pascualina (a traditional dish with spinach and hard-boiled eggs stuffed in pastry).

Guatemala will have a guest chef in the kitchen. Chile’s menu features traditional potato pancakes, Argentina wine tasting and empanada. Venezuela will serve up a mighty tasty Creole red snapper dish and Mexico will have Chef Maria Del Carmen Saenz on site to add a special touch to dishes like Mayan pork and Mole Coloradito chicken.

On until Tuesday 22 September at Hyatt Promenade Cafe. $69 per person for a buffet dinner and dessert. See the website for details about nights and cuisines.

Spring Tea

Celebrate spring in one of the stunning hidden Parliament House courtyards. Enjoy a delightful high tea of mouth-watering delicacies with a glass of something sparkling to celebrate Floriade on Saturday 3 October or Saturday 10 October (2pm to 4pm).

SPORT & FITNESS

Free early morning exercise walks at Floriade

Local Heart Foundation walk organisers and CANwalk members will lead walkers through the gardens before the gates open to the general public. Experience the beauty and serenity of the gardens without the crowds!

Challenge yourself in the ACT Duathlon Championships at one of the most beautiful multi-sport event destinations in the heart of Canberra. The 10km run, 40km cycle and 5km run event starts and finishes at Rond Terraces with the spectacular backdrop of Lake Burley Griffin and Parliament House. The event includes a Novice Duathlon, 2/5km Fun Runs and the popular TRYstars Kids Duathlon.

This race caters for beginners, age groupers and some of Australia’s best Duathletes who are racing as a lead in to the ITU World Duathlon Championships being held in Adelaide three weeks later. For more information see the website. Sunday 27 September 9am-1pm. Rond Terraces, Parkes Way.

FAMILY

Animal Crackers

The National Film and Sound Archive celebrates Australian films starring your most beloved animals these school holidays, from Skippy to Red Dog. All sessions at 10am each day with one exception. See here for the full list of films showing. From 28 September to 9 October at the National Film and Sound Archive.

Family and Community Day at the National Archives of Australia

Bring the kids along for family fun activities including origami boat making, old fashioned games, a discovery trail and an Archives selfie! ‘Ask a Reference Officer’ your research questions, hands-on workshops on our Discovering Anzacs website, exhibition highlights tours of Life Interrupted: Gallipoli moments, special viewings of the Australian Constitution, and more. No bookings required. The event is free, just drop in. On Monday September 28 from 10am – 4pm at National Archives of Australia, Queen Victoria Terrace, Parkes. Visit the website for more information http://www.naa.gov.au/visit-us/events/

School Holidays at the Memorial: Hands on History

Try Hands on History at the Australian War Memorial these school holidays. What do servicemen and servicewomen wear? What do they eat? What jobs do they do? This exciting hands-on history programs answer these questions and many more. Try on uniforms, handle real items, and hear incredible stories of Australians in wartime. At the lower galleries, free event.

Canberra’s world-class floral extravaganza, Floriade, returns for its 28th year in September, promising yet another colourful program of events inspired by the 2015 theme, Reflection.

Visitors to Australia’s biggest celebration of spring can pick up gardening tips from experts in the field, listen to inspiring musical performances, enjoy culinary demonstrations by world-renowned chefs and keep the kids entertained with an exciting line up of entertainment.

This year’s garden beds serve as floral tributes to the 100th anniversary of the Anzac landings at Gallipoli, representing iconic symbols of war and peace such as the poppy, the Southern Cross, two-up and the famous slouch hat.

12 September- 11 October, Commonwealth Park, Canberra. Free Entry.

Meet the Gardener Tour

The Parliament House Landscape Services gardeners will lead this very special in-depth tour through the gardens and hidden courtyards of Parliament House. They will show you how they manage the intricate systems and plantings that keep the gardens always looking their best. Here is an opportunity to ask all of those gardening questions and get a few tips from the best. You will finish the tour with tea in the Queen’s Terrace cafe.

Celebrity Trainer Lee Campbell’s BFirm Battle Games are unique school holiday experiences for any kids aged between 8 – 14, where the primary aims are adventure, inclusiveness and fun. The sessions can stand alone or kids can participate in all of the available “missions”.

In teams, kids will compete in a variety of challenges which focus on every form of development from their creativeness, teamwork/leadership, fitness and strength – Battle Games is for everyone and they spend a whole day outside without being plugged in!

The National Capital Exhibition presents Little Griffins @ Brick by Brick; an exciting programme for toddlers and pre-schoolers. Little Griffins includes songs, activities and lots of Duplo™ construction fun as a gentle introduction to the wonders of the National Capital.

Play Uppokes its tongue out at the idea that museums are hands off. Stand up, muck up, dress up, make up, think up and step up in a fabulous space that has turned the traditional idea of what goes on in museums completely on its head. In Play Up it is visitors to the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House (MOADOPH) who are the curators – the exhibition has been developed with children and celebrates the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Play Up celebrates the important role children have in the cultural life of our communities. Most importantly Play Up is a place for fun. At MOADOPH and open from 9am to 5pm daily.

Perception Deception

Does your brain play tricks on you? Is one person’s reality the same as yours? Answer these questions and more with the Perception Deception exhibition at Questacon. Surprise your senses and challenge your mind with over 60 hands-on and multimedia exhibits featuring perceptual test and illusions. This family-friendly exhibition reveals how our brains process information from our senses to form our perception of the world around us. Sometimes all is not as it seems! On now until 30 September 2015. For entry prices visit the website.

There’s always heaps for people of all ages to do at Questacon – check out their list of events here.

National Dinosaur Museum Weekend Tours

The National Dinosaur Museum holds tours every weekend. Join one of their expert staff to experience a journey through time. Take your camera, your friends, those burning dinosaur questions and join the knowledgeable staff for a fun and educational tour suitable for all ages. Tours are free with admission. Tours are 30-minutes and run every weekend at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm until 27 December.

Family Space

The National Portrait Gallery has something for everyone to enjoy this school holidays in the Portrait Gallery Adventure Family Space. Explore the lives of Australia’s greatest adventurers through interactive art carts, dioramas and dress ups. Make your own portrait that expresses your spirit of adventure using fun art materials and the photo booth. All materials provided and free for all to enjoy! From 11am to 4pm daily.

Leap into your local library

Your local library is a treasure trove…not only are there free books and resources, there are regular amazing events! Giggle & Wiggle with your little ones (up to 2 years) and help them learn through language play using interactive rhymes, songs, games and stories. Looking to improve your English and make new friends, then head along to your local library for one of the informal English conversation groups. For more events and info check them out here.

Friday Storytime for Preschoolers

Take your little ones along to The Australian National Botanic Gardens for some fun with stories, songs, rhymes and creative activities brought to life by the ACT Storytellers. An engaging treat for pre-school children, parents and carers. First Friday of the month (different theme each month) and commences at 10am (duration one hour). Tickets are $5 per child and bookings are not required. Visit the website for more information.

On September 24 at 6pm, at the National Museum of Australia, Lawson Cres, Acton.

Women in War museum theatre performances

Be part of the spring school holiday programs at the Australian War Memorial with Women In War. See actor Leith Arundel in two moving performances, Last letters and Radio silence, relating the experiences of women during wartime. Other programs include story time, hands-on history activities, drop in craft sessions and gallery talks. Please visit the Australian War Memorial events calendar on their website for exact dates and times.

The Crocodile Hotel Book Launch

Acclaimed playwright Julie Janson will be launching her book, The Crocodile Hotel at Harry Hartog. It is an epic story of a young Aboriginal single mother’s awakening of identity and compassion in a remote Northern Territory community in 1976. Complimentary refreshments provided and books available to purchase on the night. On September 23 at 6.30pm at Harry Hartog Booksellers, Woden

Meet the Gardener Tour

The Parliament House Landscape Services gardeners will lead this very special in-depth tour through the gardens and hidden courtyards of Parliament House. They will show you how they manage the intricate systems and plantings that keep the gardens always looking their best. Here is an opportunity to ask all of those gardening questions and get a few tips from the best. You will finish the tour with tea in the Queen’s Terrace cafe.

The National Gallery of Australia has an extensive program of talks and workshops run in conjunction with their current exhibitions. Hear about local and international artists or specific techniques. Be inspired by the greats and create your own artworks. Talks and workshops cater for a range of different age groups. For full details visit the NGA website.

STAGE & FILM

The Confidence Man

The Confidence Man By Zoe Pepper and Adrianne Daff is a gripping thriller that places the audience at the centre of the action. Complete with goodies, baddies and a dose of good-old fashioned psychotic menace, this is a bold interactive theatre experience.

Equipped with masks and headsets, selected participants navigate the space, experiencing events in the first person. Other audience members observe and eavesdrop on the characters’ private thoughts and conversations using headphones and a personal console to shift between each character, choosing the action they want to follow.

At The Street Theatre, 15 Childers St, Canberra City this Sunday 20 to Wednesday 23 September. Tickets online from www.thestreet.org.au

The Turning (MA 15+)

The National Portrait Gallery is continuing its free film screenings throughout Spring. Join them for a screening of The Turning MA15+ (2013), 180 minutes. Saturday 26 September, National Portrait Gallery. Free entry.

Cult Classics return to Dendy

Dendy Canberra’sCult Classics will return for another season, showcasing some of the best films from the last several decades. The program opens with the first instalment of the magnificent adventure Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) on every Monday with an incredible line-up for the winter season that will feature some of the best films of all time including the highest grossing film of 2003, Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King and Fight Club (1999).

The August program includes The Exorcist (1973), Wayne’s World (1992), Willow (1998), 54 The Director’s Cut (1998) and Tropic Thunder (2008). The season will conclude with the best known ‘midnight movie’ The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)on Monday 21 September with fans and guests encourage to attend in their best Rocky Horror attire. The Cult Classics screen every Monday with a session at 10am and 6.30pm. Members pay just $10 and non-members $12. Tickets are now on sale and bookings are highly recommended.

MUSIC, DANCE & MORE

Wednesday Lunchtime Live

Piano students from the studios of Elena Nikulina and Natalia Tkachenko will perform in the Wesley Music Centre Lunchtime Live series. These delightful young pianists will present a program of music by a wide range of traditional and contemporary composers. This is a great opportunity to hear performances by Canberra’s rising talent, mentored by two outstanding teachers. No bookings required. Tickets at the door. Visit the website for more information: www.wesleycanberra.org.au/music On Wednesday September 23 from 12.40 to 1.20pm at the Wesley Music Centre, National Circuit, Forrest.

Dawn Disco

Dawn Disco is set to be an energetic morning dance experience for people who want to start their day with positivity and fun times! Dawn Disco will be held on the first Friday of every month at O’Donnell Youth Centre, Braddon.

It’s a morning dance party featuring upbeat songs from the 70s, 80s, 90s and today! Entry is $5 on the door (kids free) and there is heaps of FREE parking at the venue. This event is all-ages and is drug and alcohol free. Wear comfy clothes that can get sweaty! Don’t forget your water bottle!

Explore Australia’s TV, radio and music collection at your leisure in theNational Film and Sound Archive‘s latest screen and sound experience in Acton – The Front Room. Discover the history of sound, music and broadcast in comfort. Listen to radio broadcasts on a 1950s radiogram, watch classic TV in the lounge space or play CDs on one of the listening posts. Whether you’ve got five minutes or five hours, there’s always something to see, hear or do in The Front Room. Free entry. Open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm until 24 December at the National Film and Sound Archive.

No Lights, No Lycra

There is no light, no lycra, no teacher, no steps to learn, no technique, just free movement. NLNL is a space where you can completely let go, shake out the stresses of the week, and lose yourself in the music and the physicality of your body. NLNL is a daggy, non-pretentious place to completely be yourself. NLNL is on Wednesday nights from 7.30pm to 9pm at St John’s Anglican Church Hall in Reid (corner of Constitution Ave and Anzac Park West). Lots of free onsite parking available, and admission still just $5 on the door.

Live Local Music

This post isn’t long enough to list all the various gigs around town, but if you’re into live music, we heartily suggest you check out what’s on offer at The Phoenix, Transit Bar, The Front, The Abbey, and BMA’s gig guide.

FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Menslink Charity Auction

Menslink are holding an online charity auction this week. There are plenty of great prizes to bid on and all money raised goes to help the hundreds of single mum’s whose teenage sons they support.

As one of our single mums, who’s husband died a few years ago, leaving her to raise three young sons by herself says “Please continue to support such a great cause; you’re not just supporting these great young boys, but their families too.”

Anyone can bid. Menslink are hoping to raise between $10-$15 thousand from the auction, which will help train and support three volunteer mentors to take on a young man over a two year period. The link to the auction site is here. Auction closes 7.30pm Tuesday 22 September.

NEXTGEN Cocktails for a Cause

NEXTGEN will host a fundraising cocktail party for Marymead at Aviary Rooftop Bar, Westside Acton Park on Thursday 24 September. Starting at 6pm and going until late, the ticket includes a cocktail on arrival, canapes throughout the evening, live music and lucky door prizes as well as a special live performance by ‘Tey The Artist‘ of his new single ‘Cocktails’ and a Photobooth from Photobooth Canberra . Tickets are available through Outincanberra. Tickets are $40 per person. For more information see the website.

2015 Volunteering EXPO

Volunteering ACT is hosting the 2015 Volunteering EXPO to showcase the diversity of volunteering opportunities available across the Canberra Region. The EXPO will feature over 50 exhibitors and will provide Canberrans with a chance to discover their passion through volunteering. Did you know 90% of organisations in the ACT need more volunteers and has over 50 volunteer involving organisations. Information about participating exhibitors can be found on the Volunteering ACT website. On Wednesday September 23 from 12pm – 6.30pm at Corinna Ballroom, Canberra Southern Cross Club, Woden.

Fundraising Night for Canberra Hospital Oncology Unit

Earlier this year, Rosa Onorato, a loving wife and mother lost her battle with cancer. The Onorato family want to raise funds to assist other families and friends as they go through this difficult journey and to more significantly support the Canberra Hospital Oncology Unit, through the raising of always needed funds and to acknowledge the tireless, challenging work of the staff, by hosting a public fundraising event.

Ticket cost includes a two course dinner and a 3 hour drinks package ($110 per person or $1000 per table of 10). Tickets can be purchased online through www.trybooking.com/144121. There will be live entertainment, as well as raffles and auctions. If you wish to donate directly to the Canberra Hospital Foundation, click here. Please select from the dropdown box ‘cancer, ambulatory and community health support’ and in the comments box note it’s in memory of Rosa Onorato. On Saturday September 26 from 6pm – 11.30pm at The Rex Hotel– 150 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon.

Bras & Boxers

In September, Oncology Massage Training and The Cancer Support Group will be bringing art to all the fun places! With live music, auctions, raffles and prizes PLUS the 2016 calendar launch, the event will be fundraising for cancer support services in Canberra and the supporting region. Designers and local celebrities will be designing bras and boxers for auction and to illustrate a 2016 calendar. Winning designs will win cash prizes.

Dress: Cocktail. Tickets:$100 per head and available on through the Hellenic Club or phone (02) 6281 0899

If you have a creative streak and want to showcase your skills, visit Bras and Boxers for more information.

ART

Canberra Botanical 2015

For the past 10 years Canberra Botanical has held an exhibit of botanical artworks during Spring; Canberra Botanical 2015 seeks to merge the disciplines of art and science, by exploring the structure of plants and their innate beauty. Through the medium of drawing, botanical art encompasses a range of styles, from scientific illustration to realistic painting.

Artist-in-residence Byrd is in his final weeks of the program That’s Not Glass! at the Canberra Glassworks. Byrd will be personally leading a behind-the-scenes tour of the Glassworks, giving access to some of his hidden artwork placed throughout the historic power house. That’s Not Glass! is a six month program of interventions and installations throughout the building by contemporary (non-glass) artists who have lived and worked in Canberra, exploring what the building means to them. Byrd is a Canberra based painter and sculptor. His practice is cross-disciplinary and straddles two sets of arts practices – (street) public work; and (gallery) sculptural practice.

Canberra Glassworks and Megalo Print Studio partnered to offer six artists a unique opportunity to explore the connections between printmaking and glass practice during a two month residency. You now have the opportunity to hear from participating artists about their experiences during the residency. You will also be able to view the artworks, with a selection available to purchase. The Open Studios will be held in the Engine Room at 2pm on Saturday 26th September, with Megalo Print Studio also opening their GLINT studios during the day.
articipating artists: Debra Jurss, George Agius, Luke Chiswell, Spike Deane, Nicci Haynes, Julie Ryder

If you love beautifully designed and crafted pieces for the home that you can actually use every, single day, you won’t want to miss Table Tools by Alison Jackson. Although only 29 years of age, Alison has won multiple awards for her work and exhibited nationally and in Germany. This is her first solo exhibition and it’s on now at Craft ACT: Canberra Craft and Design Centre (free to the public). Table Tools is a collection of 48 high-end pieces, which Alison made specifically for the exhibition using traditional silversmithing processes and techniques. Materials include fine silver, copper and brass.

The new collection features pouring and other vessels, spoons, whisks, jugs and serving utensils—all with their own personality. While each piece in Table Tools has a name, Alison doesn’t like to dictate how people use them. ‘They’re designed to be flexible and I want people to be inspired by their imagination and not restrict themselves to one use,’ says the artist. On now until 24 October, Craft ACT, Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 5pm, Saturday, 12pm to 4pm. Some of Alison’s work can also be seen at Agency, Ori Building, Braddon.

Bodywork: Australian Jewellery 1970–2012

This unique and must-see travelling exhibition showcasing the work of 42 of the country’s most influential, contemporary jewellery designers, promises to ‘inspire, intrigue and inform’. Bodywork: Australian Jewellery 1970–2012 is your last chance to see this exhibition–Canberra is the ‘last stop’ before the jewellery returns to its permanent home in the National Gallery of Australia (NGA). The exhibition has already been seen by thousands in five states, and now here for Canberrans and visitors alike, at Craft ACT: Canberra Craft and Design Centre.

The work, curated by the NGA, is beautifully displayed in six specially designed cases and features jewellery by four Canberra-based designers. Pieces include brooches, arm bands, lockets, rings, bangles, and pendants created out of a wide range of materials such as gold, sterling silver, copper, coral, aluminium and polypropylene. The collection is on now at Craft ACT as part of its outreach program (free to the public). On now until 24 October, Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 5pm, Saturday, 12pm to 4pm.

Jo Hollier Solo Exhibition

“In March this year I was invited to exhibit in an international women’s exhibition where I was the only Australian woman artist in Thailand. This was in conjunction with International Women’s Day 2015. My pieces for this show drew from the story of Elizabeth Gould, illustrator for her famous ornithologist husband John Gould. At the same time I was offered an artists residency at the up country campus of the Thai Arts University which was a both productive and challenging period.

This period of living abroad provided a time of reflecting upon how impressions of a different location can be fleeting but still resonate for a long time. The result is now a solo exhibition which opens in the Belconnen Arts Centre on Friday 25 September.” – Artist, Jo Hollier.

The exhibition is to be held at the Belconnen Arts Centre for the period Friday September 25th- Sunday 18 October. The Official opening by, Kerry-Anne Cousins, Canberra Times visual arts writer and critic is on Friday September 25th at 5.30pm.

Gorgeous Mortar

Canberra’s newest pop-up, a community arts hub, is opening this week in Braddon. Housed in the old Cornucopia Bakery space on Mort Street, Gorgeous Mortar seeks to create a vibrant local arts space which engages with the community via a diverse range of stimulating events and offerings. The introduction of Gorgeous Mortar will see an expansion of events and utilisation of the space. A simple, funky cafe and bar is to be installed, which will showcase live music, art exhibits & installations. A special curated week-long event, the FortyMorty Project, will celebrate the original building and its inhabitants.

Karina Bontes, Zoe Anderson and Dai Cameron, the collaborators working on the project, see it as a chance to celebrate the changing face of Braddon, a location bursting with expression, fun and urban vibes. Visit the website for more information gorgeousmortar.com.au. Opens Friday 11 September, 40 Mort Street, Braddon.

Reality in Flames: Curator-led tours

Join an Australian War Memorial curator for a tour of Reality in Flames and look at how Australian artists responded to the upheaval and anxiety of the period to create powerful imagery which explored all aspects of life during the Second World War.

Special Exhibitions Gallery, free event.

ASOC Spring Exhibition 2015

Be amazed by the quality and variety of talent Canberra’s local artists display at the Artists Society of Canberra’s Spring Art Competition and Exhibition. Official Opening on Wednesday 23 September 2015 from 5.30pm. All welcome.
Enjoy Jazz by Tilt and home made refreshments. Don’t miss Family Day Sunday with hands-on art for kids. Vote for your favourite artwork. Free entry. Gold coin donation for souvenir catalogue, eftpos available.

Official Opening on Wednesday 23 September 2015 from 5.30pm at Albert Hall on Commonwealth Avenue. Free Entry.

In Bespoke: Designfor the people, six Australian craft and design practitioners have created new works that reflect and respond to the iconic designs of the original furniture at Old Parliament House. Each artist was given unprecedented access to the rooms and collections, and the freedom to create a personal response.

Informed by their own artistic backgrounds, each artist considered notions of political perspective, change, accountability and power in their pieces. The result is a thought-provoking collaboration between design, creativity and Australia’s political history. Artists include Canberra artists Jennifer Robertson, Niklavs Rubenis, Julie Ryder, Caren Florance, in collaboration with Melinda Smith; and Sydney-based artist Cecelia Heffer. The exhibition will run until November 2015 at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

Norforce: Tony Albert

Tony Albert works in a number of art forms, including drawing, painting, photography, and installation. A founding member of Queensland’s indigenous art collective proppaNOW, Albert’s art explores political, historical and cultural issues relevant to indigenous people in Australia today. Albert exhibits internationally and nationally and has been the recipient of numerous awards and prizes. Most recently Albert won the City of Sydney commission to create a public artwork in Hyde Park. Titled Yininmadyemi – Thou didst let fall the artwork honours the military service of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service men and women. Open until 3 November 2015 at the Australian War Memorial.

Other exhibitions

For a comprehensive round up of smaller exhibitions around town, visit Capital Magazine.

EXHIBITIONS

Barons, boots, and beer: The First World War in the oral history collection

The Australian War Memorial’s oral history collection includes a treasure trove of memories provided by Australia’s First World War veterans. Share in some anecdotes with the Photographs, Film and Sound team. Friday 24 September at the Australian War Memorial.

Discovery of Korea 2015: K-Fashion – Hanbok Showcase

Experience the beauty and charm of Hanbok, brought to Canberra by the Korean Embassy. Hanbok is the traditional Korean clothing mainly made of silk, renowned for its clean and artistic lines and its vibrant colours. See top-models from Korea showcasing various styles of Hanbok on the stage, traditional Korean music and dance performances. An exhibition of traditional Korean cultural items will be included. Tuesday 22 September. Llewellyn Hall, William Herbert Place, Canberra City.

The Distant Warriors

The Distant Warriors: Ka Maumahara (We Will Remember) Let Us Not Be Forgotten is a special ANZAC Centenary exhibition inspired by the stories of Indigenous Australian and Maori soldiers who fought in the First World War. The exhibition, only at the Canberra Glassworks, honours our fallen and our survivors. From 9 September 2015 to 19 November 2015
10am – 4pm, Tuesday – Sunday at the Canberra Glassworks. Entry is by gold coin donation.

Art of the First World War

Works of art displayed in the Memorial’s First World War Galleries offer fascinating insights into the war from the perspectives of servicemen and servicewomen, official war artists, and civilians. Wednesday 23 September, 12pm-1pm at the Australian National War Memorial.

Ink RemixThe Mandala Project

Darryl’s Den is a local non-profit Canberra disability studio. The Darryl’s Den Mandala project is a positive art project, giving people with a range of disabilities the opportunity to create beautiful original art work in a collaborative group environment. Mandalas have been used for thousands of years by many different cultures for healing, renewal, expression, discovery, meditation, reflection, creativity, wellbeing and connecting.

Entry is free. For more information visit www.belconnenartscentre.com.au. Opens on Friday 4 September at 5.30pm, at the Belconnen Art Centre, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen.

INK REMIX: Contemporary Art from mainland China,Taiwan and Hong Kongis curated by Dr Sophie McIntyre and highlights new and innovative aspects of contemporary ink art. Most artists in the exhibition have trained in Chinese calligraphy and ink painting but reinvent or subvert the tradition in works that explore links between personal, regional and global experience. On now until 18 October at Canberra Museum and Gallery, Canberra City.

X-rated: the sex industry in the ACT

Since the 1980s Canberra has been synonymous with sex in the minds of many Australians. Twenty years have passed since it became legal to sell X-rated videos in the Australian Capital Territory. The adult industry has gone through periods of growth, boom and, many would argue, bust. This exhibition explores the evolution of Canberra’s sex industry over the past 50 years. The public is warned that some material displayed in this exhibition may cause offence. Persons under 18 years of age may not enter this exhibition. On until 20 September at Canberra Museum and Gallery.

Australia in the Great War

Australia in the Great War is the Australian War Memorial’s new exhibition in the First World War Galleries. Discover one of the world’s great collections of material related to the First World War. The First World War Galleries integrate a wide variety of items from this collection, including dioramas, art works; uniforms; medals; technology such as artillery and firearms; photographs; film; and letters and diaries. The Australian War Memorial presents the story of Australia in the First World War chronologically, covering all major theatres of operations: Gallipoli, the Western Front, Sinai and Palestine and the war at sea. On display now until 1 January 2017 at the Australian War Memorial.

William Edwin Pidgeon (1909–1981), war correspondent and artist

William Edwin Pidgeon was a painter, cartoonist, illustrator, and newspaper critic. This exhibition presents a selection of the over 400 works by William Pidgeon held in the Australian War Memorial’s Art collection. The works relate to Pidgeon’s Second World War experiences in Darwin, New Guinea, Borneo and Morotai between 1943 to 1945. On display in the Second World War Galleries until 7 March 2016 at the Australian War Memorial.

The Home Front: Australia during the First World War

Commemorating the centenary of the First World War, The Home Front looks at life back at home and the pride, sorrow, passion, wonder and joy experienced by those far from the battlefields. Through 23 personal stories, this exhibition explores Australians’ choices, opportunities and challenges in a time of heightened emotions. See the effects of war on those at home. Rediscover Prime Minister Billy Hughes’s determination to impose conscription on a divided nation, Basil Watson’s thrilling and ultimately tragic aerobatic displays in his homemade biplane, May Gibbs’s quaint postcards that carried messages of joy to soldiers and more. On display at the National Museum of Australia until 1 January 2017.

Art is a Weapon

Art is a Weapon takes you back to an Australia gripped by the Cold War. Amid propaganda for and against communism, artists turned to an image familiar to most Australians; the Southern Cross flag of the Eureka Stockade. The portfolio contains fourteen works from ten artists, including three from prominent Melbourne artist Noel Counihan, reflecting both the Eureka rebellion itself and, more broadly, the themes of workers’ rights and struggles against the established authorities.

Art is a Weapon explores how the Eureka story, legend and iconography have been used by groups and causes of all political flavours to spread their message. Alongside the portfolio of works, other objects and artworks using the Southern Cross motif show how the idea of Eureka has been adopted by groups as diverse as young communists and motorcycle clubs.

Superheroes. Battle axes. Death stares. Who said politics was dry and dull? Highly anticipated and scorchingly honest, Behind the Lines 2014 celebrates the best political cartoons of 2014. The exhibition – one of the most anticipated of the year for politic tragics is now open at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

In the 2014 exhibition, cartoonists wryly comment on Tony Abbott’s first year in government. They see the Coalition attempting to deliver strong and stable leadership, as well as fulfilling their election promises to stop the boats, axe the tax, fix the budget and reduce red tape. Meanwhile, a restless Australian Labor Party waits for its Leader to ditch the past, move forward and say something.

Each year the exhibition acknowledges a cartoonist as the Behind the Lines Political Cartoonist of the Year. Open until November 2015.

Afghanistan: The Australian Story

Afghanistan and the Middle East are now linked to Australia’s national story. Australia’s mission is clear: to combat international terrorism, to stabilise Afghanistan, and to support Australia’s international alliances. Yet a mission statement cannot capture the challenges, the successes, and the comradeship of the Australian men and women who pursue it. Nor the joys and heartbreaks, or the loneliness and the dedication of those who wait at home. Some of these experiences, set against the powerful imagery of a modern war, are told in this exhibition. Over time, the display will change and evolve as more veterans share their stories.

Discover the changing nature of Australian democracy and the power of your voice within it. Power of 1 is a ground breaking interactive exhibition shaped by the answers you share, about what matters to you. Step back in time to remember the events, people and experiences that have shaped each generation of Australians. Have your say about the state of democracy and help to create a new kind of museum experience curated by the voices of the Australian people. It’s time…have your say and be heard. Open until 12 November 2015 at Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

Menzies: By John Howard

Former Prime Minister John Howard has curated this Menzies exhibition and shares his unique and personal insights, reflections and stories on the intense first term of former Prime Minister Robert Menzies. The exhibition marks the 75th anniversary of Robert Menzies’ first term as prime minister (1939-41) and features objects never before seen by the public, including personal items on loan from the Menzies family. Open now until 3 September 2015 at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

Magna Carta – an Australian story

This year we celebrate the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta, one of the most famous and significant documents for democracy and human rights around the world. First written in 1215, it set down rules limiting the power of the monarchy and safeguarding basic human rights and freedoms. Over its long history it has been reinterpreted as an icon of justice and liberty. In this exhibition, created with the assistance of the British Library, explore the history and relevance of Magna Carta from an Australian perspective.